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Originally Posted by Achilles

Wade Wilson was another diabetic QB although he was a Type 2. He played 17 years in the NFL.

From the cowboys web site.

Wilson Feels Cutler's Pain

If Denver quarterback Jay Cutler needs reassurance being recently-diagnosed an insulin-dependent diabetic should in no way jeopardize his NFL career, all he need do is call Cowboys quarterbacks coach Wade Wilson.

He knows.

Wilson had to deal with his own Type 1 diabetes for 15 of his 19-year playing career, and said once you learn what you have and how to control the sugar imbalance then the disease should have no affect on your ability to perform on football's highest stage.

"You have to balance your insulin, exercise and your diet," said Wilson, who still must take insulin shots now at age 49. "Once you get into a routine, he shouldn't have any problem with his career.

"It takes a little bit of an adjustment in your lifestyle, but you can balance your diet and insulin."

The 25-year-old Cutler said he thought it strange he lost 35 pounds during last season, along with noticeable zip on his fastball. While taking routine blood tests before beginning Denver's off-season conditioning program, doctors discovered his sugars were five time higher than normal.

With the Type 1 form, the body's immune system attacks insulin-producing pancreatic cells, so that patients require insulin injections to survive. Doctors told Cutler he should have no further problems now that he's begun taking the daily insulin shots.

"The main thing you have to have is control of your insulin levels," Wilson said. "If you get it under control, there is no reason he can't have a productive career."


--Mickey Spagnola dallasCowboys.com